Visit to Ren Ci Hospital (8 Aug 2011)

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When I first heard that our school would be getting students involved in Community Involvement Programme (CIP) as part of National Day celebrations on the 8th August, I was rather downbeat as that meant skipping the usual celebration, something which I enjoyed.  The Secondary Two students were to visit Ren Ci Hospital. I soon forgot about it and got rather despondent when the day came. Little did I expect that that one simple visit would touch the hearts of so many of us and mine.  It was definitely an eye-opener, and I was so glad to have made the trip there.

The programme was simple enough – just spend some time with the patients there, make them happy and spread some National Day cheer. The day started with a tea party with the hospital's more mobile patients - about 75 of them. We played some bingo, topped up with some light refreshments, and also watched Sec 2 Integrity’s class performances.

After the tea party, we wheeled the patients back to their wards. We presented the presents we brought to the patients individually. Even though some of the patients were less expressive than we expected, we could see in their eyes that they were really happy.  In one of the wards we visited, an elderly lady was crying out of sadness, but after we gave her a present she broke out humming our national anthem. We were touched that such a small gesture could mean so much to someone in despair.

The elderly gentleman who was under my charge was afflicted with diabetes. He also had some other injuries like a sprained ankle, but despite the physical suffering, he was mentally cheerful.  We spoke openly and he was very hilarious.  I admire his courage and positive attitude towards life.  In that short one half hour, I have learned so much about life from him.

His parting gift to me – were his words of wisdom, " Young man, do appreciate your time on earth, life is the greatest gift of all."

During the visit, my classmate, Ashley, was so overwhelmed by the sense of gloom that she broke down in tears.  Unlike Ashley, I did not break down. But I am struck by a realisation deep inside – that money isn't everything.  In that two-hour visit, I have had my eyes opened  and my entire perception of charity work changed.

I am thankful my school and teachers have arranged to celebrate our nation’s independence day in this meaningful way.  It was something special and precious to me and I am truly glad to be there.

By Kendrick Quek (Sec 2 Joy)